Aspen: Your Ultimate Winter Getaway
Looking forward to planning that winter holiday trip? Say less. We've got you covered with a perfect destination treat: Aspen, Colorado. Where upscale dining, high-end shopping, and luxurious amenities epitomize a bougie lifestyle for those seeking refined and opulent experiences. Snowshoeing, snow biking, eating, shopping, skiing, tubing, relaxing, and more skiing. Aspen is a city that has it all and will put you on the top of mountains and your friend's Instagram feed. Lucky for Central Texans, American Airlines provides nonstop service from Austin (AUS) to Aspen (ASE) every Saturday until April 3, 2025. The service will continue in June 2025. Here are our top recommendations for this luxury getaway.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Aspen is renowned for its world-class ski resorts, including Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, the powdery slopes offer an unparalleled experience.
●Aspen Mountain: Known for its challenging runs, Aspen Mountain (Ajax) is perfect for experienced skiers and snowboarders looking for a thrill. The gondola ride offers breathtaking views of the town and surrounding mountains.
●Aspen Highlands: Famous for its Highland Bowl, this resort offers some of the most demanding terrain in Colorado. For those looking to test their limits, the hike-to terrain is a must.
●Buttermilk: Ideal for families and beginners, Buttermilk is home to the X Games and features gentle slopes and a renowned terrain park.
●Snowmass: The largest of the four mountains, Snowmass offers a variety of runs for all skill levels, from wide-open groomers to challenging glades and steeps.
Snowshoeing and Snow Biking
Explore Aspen’s scenic trails with snowshoeing and snow biking. These activities are perfect for enjoying the serene winter landscape and getting a workout at the same time.
●Snowshoeing: Discover the quiet beauty of Aspen’s backcountry with guided snowshoe tours. Explore spruce and fir forests along a babbling creek in the Snowmass Ski Area on this two-hour guided snowshoe tour with a Naturalist from Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES).
●Snow Biking: For an exhilarating twist on mountain biking, try snow biking on the groomed trails of Aspen and Snowmass. Rent a fat bike and enjoy the unique experience of cycling on snow.
Tubing and Ice Skating
For some family-friendly fun, try tubing at Snowmass or ice skating at the Aspen Recreation Center. Both activities are great for creating lasting memories and enjoying the winter air.
●Tubing: Snowmass offers a dedicated tubing hill with multiple lanes, a lift for easy access, and plenty of thrills for all ages. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the snow without the need for skiing or snowboarding skills.
●Ice Skating: The Aspen Recreation Center and the historic Aspen Ice Garden offer public skating sessions. Enjoy gliding across the ice in a festive winter setting, with rentals available on-site.
Luxurious Spas and Yummy Dining
After a day of adventure, unwind at one of Aspen’s luxurious spas. The RaKxa Wellness Spa at The St. Regis Aspen Resort offers a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate and relax. If you prefer to relax in nature, we recommend heading to Glenwood Springs, about a 45-minute car ride from Aspen. Iron Mountain Hot Springs is the perfect place where you can find a variety of hot spring pools ranging from 98 degrees to 108 degrees, all set against spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and the Colorado River.
Following your spa experience, indulge in fine dining at Matsuhisa, a Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Alternatively, enjoy a more comforting meal at Home Team BBQ, known for its delicious Southern-style barbecue and vibrant, laid-back atmosphere. Located within the Inn at Aspen, Home Team BBQ combines the flavors of traditional Southern barbecue with a lively bar scene, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
High-End Shopping & the Arts
Aspen's shopping scene is perfect for those looking to add a touch of luxury to their trip. Explore designer boutiques and local shops along Hyman Avenue and Cooper Avenue. Aspen’s Art Museum is a must-visit for its innovative contemporary art exhibitions, stunning modern architecture designed by Shigeru Ban, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains from its rooftop deck. As a vibrant cultural hub, it hosts a variety of events, talks, and educational programs, all while offering free admission, making it an accessible and enriching destination for art enthusiasts and visitors alike.
Aspen offers a blend of outdoor adventures and indoor luxuries that cater to all tastes. With its stunning natural beauty and upscale amenities, Aspen is the perfect destination for making unforgettable memories with family and friends this holiday season. So, pack your bags, bring your camera, and get ready for an extraordinary experience in one of Colorado’s most enchanting towns. American Airlines provides nonstop service to Aspen (ASE) every Saturday until April 3, 2025. The service will continue in June 2025.
For more nonstop flights from AUS, visit https://www.austintexas.gov/department/nonstop-flights-out-aus.
Disclaimer: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport hereby disclaims any responsibility for any flight cancellations made by the airline. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport advises all customers to check with the airline for any cancellation information.